Fitness
15 Perfect Gifts to Help Start His Year Off Right
Published
3 years agoon
By
Terry Power
This article was produced in partnership with Affirm
No matter who you’re gifting for, chances are good that person is looking to improve themself when the calendar switches over and the new year begins. Whether it’s establishing a daily fitness routine, getting outdoors more often, or helping them dress for the job they want, the right gift can go a long way. Fortunately, shopping for the holidays doesn’t need to be stressful on you or your bank account. Affirm is the convenient and transparent way to pay for all the gifts on your list over time; there are no hidden or late fees, and you’ll know exactly how much you’ll pay up front at the moment you check out (see footer for details). All you need to do is pick out the perfect gift, like these 15 prime picks. Read on for our suggestions.
1. Adidas Terrex Free Hiker COLD.RDY Hiking Boots
For those looking to stay active through the winter months, capable footwear is essential. Adidas didn’t hold back when it comes to tech and all-weather materials with the TERREX Free Hiker COLD.RDY hiking boots. Complete with a waterproof GORE-TEX membrane, water-repellent insulation, and a specially designed lugged Continental rubber grip, the coldest depths of winter are no match for these boots.
[$250 or 4 interest-free payments of $63 with Affirm; adidas.com]
2. Tonal
Fitness is a perennial chart topper for New Years’ resolutions, but in the winter months, getting to the gym can be a challenge. Whether you’re pressed for time or simply prefer sweating in the comfort of your own home, Tonal can’t be beat for high-tech at-home training, thanks to digital weights and expert-designed workout routines—not to mention a co-sign from LeBron James. With straightforward financing from Affirm, paying for Tonal over time makes more financial sense than a monthly gym membership.
[$2,995 or as low as $63 per month with Affirm; tonal.com]
3. Rapsodo Mobile Launch Monitor
The driving range just got a whole lot more fun. Pair your smartphone with the Rapsodo Mobile Launch Monitor to track the distance, speed, launch angle, and so much more of every drive. You can even watch playback video with a tracer to really step up your game. You’ll find this and plenty of other gifts for your favorite golfer at DICK’S Sporting Goods.
[$499.99 or as low as $46 per month with Affirm; dickssportinggoods.com]
4. Bonobos Jetsetter Stretch Knit Suit Jacket
Every man can benefit from an updated suit, especially one specifically crafted for comfort and versatility. Tailored from an ultra-soft breathable wool blend, this suit can be dressed up for formal occasions or worn casually, thanks to its light construction.
[$549 or 4-interest free payments of $138 with Affirm; bonobos.com]
5. Rad Power Bikes RadRover 6 Plus
Save the car for road trips. Give the gift of a daily, stress-free start and end to the day with this e-bike. It’s a great way to get a little fresh air, light exercise—oh, and never have to worry about parking.
[$1,999 or as low as $70 per month with Affirm; radpowerbikes.com]
6. Titleist 2021 T100 Irons
A fresh set of irons will not only make your next round more exciting, you might just drop a few strokes off your score card. Fully forged with a design inspired by the pro tour, Titleist’s latest T100 Irons offer unrivaled feel and control. Whether it’s a crisp pair of golf shoes, a box of balls for those who only have eyes for ponds, or a new set of threads to look the part, DICK’S has plenty of gift options for the golfer in your life.
[$1,299.99 or as low as $56 per month with Affirm; dickssportinggoods.com]
7. The North Face Medium Base Camp Duffel
No matter the destination, a sturdy weekend bag isn’t just a necessary companion for travel—it might just inspire more of it. The weather-resistant, seemingly indestructible Base Camp Duffel from The North Face features both shoulder and backpack straps for ultimate versatility and comfort, whether you’re hopping on a last minute flight or setting up camp deep in the woods.
[$139 or 4 interest-free payments of $33 with Affirm; dickssportinggoods.com]
8. Adidas Terrex MyShelter Down Hooded Jacket
With the right gear, there’s no such thing as bad weather. For hiking in rain, snow, or just downright cold temperatures, the Terrex MyShelter jacket from Adidas is a veritable suit of armor. Plus, thanks to its sleek styling, it’ll look just as good in the city as it does on the trail.
[$300 or 4 interest-free payments of $82 with Affirm; adidas.com]
9. Therabody RecoveryAir System
Putting in the hours working out truly pays off if you’re also managing your recovery. For those looking to get the most out of their workouts and perform at their best, Therabody has a lower-body solution that, until recently, was only available for pros. This compression system is both easy to use and proven to increase circulation and reduce fatigue.
[$699 or as low as $59 per month with Affirm; therabody.com]
10. Nike Dunk Low ‘Grey Fog’
Clean, fresh, tasteful, and truly timeless, these ‘Grey Fog’ Dunk Lows elevate any look into a certified ‘fit. The neutral color scheme will let him wear this pair with literally any outfit in his closet, making them the most frequently reached-for addition to his wardrobe.
[$224 or 4 interest-free payments of $55 with Affirm; goat.com]
11. ETHOS Folding Wall Rack
For the home gym aficionado who’s always discovering new ways to feel the burn, this folding wall rack from ETHOS opens up a whole new world of possibilities for the seasoned workout buff looking to add a thing or two to his repertoire, you know he can’t go wrong with the simplicity of a basic wall rack.
[$299.98 or 4 interest-free payments of $75 with Affirm; dicksportinggoods.com]
12. Rad Power Bikes RadMission 1
For experienced urban riders who want to reach their destination a little faster (and without breaking a sweat), the RadMission 1 is a simplified yet powerful e-bike. With over 45 miles of range, this is the most convenient (and fun) way to explore a city.
[$999 or as low as $35 per month with Affirm; radpowerbikes.com]
13. JJJJound x New Balance 990v4
Though Montreal-based studio JJJJound’s collaborations sell out almost instantly, they’re designed to remain fashionable and relevant for years to come. The monochromatic take on New Balance’s beloved 990v4 silhouette is no different. Expect these kicks to age gracefully and remain a favorite across all four seasons.
[$288 or 4 interest-free payments of $72 with Affirm; goat.com]
14. Therabody Wave Solo and Roller Bundle
Fitness devotees and newcomers alike are sure to encounter aches, pains, and soreness as they progress along their athletic journey. With the exception of an on-call personal masseuse, Therabody’s Wave Solo and Roller Bundle is the most efficient and effective way to target sore muscles.
[$205 or as low as $18 per month with Affirm; therabody.com]
15. Bonobos Wool Expedition Parka
Classics done well are always a welcome addition to anyone’s wardrobe. Brave the elements in style this winter with an expedition parka that boasts time-honored design and premium materials. The luxe, water-resistant wool exterior handles snow showers with ease while the cozy sherpa-lined hood keeps you warm when winds kick up.
[$499 or 4 interest-free payments of $125 with Affirm; bonobos.com]
Rates from 0-30% APR. For example, a $800 purchase could be split into 12 monthly payments of $73 at 15% APR, or 4 interest-free payments of $200 every 2 weeks. Payment options through Affirm are subject to an eligibility check, may not be available in all states, and are provided by these lending partners: affirm.com/lenders.Options depend on your purchase amount, and a down payment may be required. CA residents: Loans by Affirm Loan Services, LLC are made or arranged pursuant to a California Finance Lenders Law license.
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There’s no doubt when the weather turns colder as we settle into winter, stouts take center stage. And while we enjoy all its iterations: standard stout, imperial stout, and robust barrel-aged stouts, we think this malty, chocolate-filled beer’s close cousin deserves a little respect as well. Of course, we’re talking about the oft-overlooked porter. And the best porters, oh buddy, they’ll have you rethinking your seasonal bevvie of choice.
For those uninitiated, the porter style had its genesis in England like many other iconic beer styles. It first appeared in the 1700s and is (you guessed it) named after porters—individuals tasked with transporting luggage.
A confusing origin story
“Stout is the direct descendant of porter. In the 1700s, it was common to use the word ‘stout’ to refer to a bolder, higher-alcohol version of any beer style, much in the same way we use the word ‘imperial’ today,” says Zach Fowle, advanced cicerone and head of marketing for Arizona Wilderness Brewing Co. in Phoenix, AZ. “Porter was the most popular beer of the day, and over time, “stout porter” became a popular variant. But by the late 1800s, demand for regular porters evaporated, and stout porter shortened simply to stout.”
But more has changed between the 1800s and today than just our penchant for wearing top hats. “Today, most brewers seem to market beers as either stout or porter based on vibes, rather than on any notable stylistic differences,” he says.
Specifically, porters are known for their dark, almost pitch-black color and rich, sweet flavor profile. If you were to drink a porter and a stout side by side, you might even have difficulty discerning the differences between the two.
Stout versus porter is an enduring topic of discussion in the brewing industry. “While there’s no debating the porter came first—and stout used to be called stout porter, so it was a stronger version of a porter—the lines have become very blurred over the years,” says Rob Lightner, co-founder of East Brother Brewing in Richmond, CA.
“I would venture that even among professionals, a blind taste test would often yield inconclusive results,” says Lightner.
The difference between porters and stouts
Porters tend to be on the milder, more chocolatey end of the spectrum, Lightner says, whereas stouts are typically a little stronger and more roasty. Of course, this isn’t a hard and fast rule
Fowle agrees, “Porters tend to be fruitier, sweeter, and less bitter than stouts, with cocoa and caramel flavors in balance with dark malt bitterness. And stouts are usually hoppier, drier, maltier, and more coffee-forward—and may even have a touch of acidity.”
Whether or not they fit neatly into boxes, one thing’s for sure: both make for incredible cold-weather brews.
“As the nights grow longer, drinking a light, summery beer just doesn’t seem right,” says Fowle. “Porter is the perfect style for the transition to winter: warming and toasty yet not too heavy, with flavors of coffee, chocolate, and pie crust that correspond with autumn weather and holidays.”
It’s the perfect time to broaden your repretoire. Sweet, robust, warming, and well-suited to the season, here are the best porters to drink now.
1. Deschutes Black Butte Porter
There are few porters more well-respected than Deschutes’ iconic Black Butte Porter. It’s brewed with Cascade and Tettnang hops as well as 2-row, Chocolate, Crystal, and Carapils malts as well as wheat. This 5.5% ABV year-round offering is great for cold-weather drinking because of its mix of roasted malts, coffee, and chocolate. It’s a robust, subtly sweet beer perfect for imbibing on a crisp fall night.
[$10.99 for a six-pack; deschutesbrewery.com]
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Fitness
Best Time-Under-Tension Workout for Total-Body Strength
Published
2 years agoon
9 November 2022By
Terry Power
The key to 360-degree muscle: 90-degree eccentric isometrics. It might seem like we’re throwing a lot of geometry at you, but the concept behind time under tension (TUT) is simple, says Joel Seedman, PhD, owner of Advanced Human Performance: “Perform the lowering phase of a movement in a slow, controlled fashion, usually 3 to 5 seconds; pause in the stretched position, typically around 90 degrees; then perform the lifting phase in a powerful yet controlled fashion.” Believe us, a time-under-tension workout can humble even seasoned lifters…Eccentric isometrics are like the pressure cooker of training.
“Rather than mindlessly performing slow-tempo reps, you’re using the increased time under tension as a means to fine-tune your body mechanics and alignment, which requires more mental engagement and focus,” Seedman adds.
If you want to forge functional muscle mass and strength while simultaneously bulletproofing the joints and connective tissue, give this 10-move, full-body eccentric isometrics workout a go.
Directions
Perform the following moves as 90-degree eccentric isometrics following the above protocol. Use heavy weight, but not at the detriment of proper form. Rest 60 to 90 seconds between sets and 2 minutes between circuits. Perform once every 2 to 4 days for optimal results.
Best Time-Under-Tension Workout for Total-Body Strength
Circuit 1
A. Barbell Back Squat
Set a squat rack up with heavy weight, then grasp bar and step under it. Squeeze shoulder blades together, then stand to unrack bar and step back with feet shoulder-width apart. Inhale, hinge at hips and slowly bend knees to 90 degrees. Pause, keeping natural arch in low back, then extend through hips to powerfully stand. 3 x 4-6 reps
B. Renegade Row
Start in the top position of a pushup with hands shoulder-width apart on moderate-to-heavy dumbbells (shown). Explosively drive right elbow back to row dumbbell toward ribs while balancing on opposite hand and feet. Pause, then slowly lower weight, stopping a few inches above floor. Switch sides after all reps are done. 3 x 5 reps each side
Circuit 2
A. Dumbbell Bentover Row
Stand with feet hip-width apart, holding two moderate-to-heavy dumbbells in front of thighs, palms facing you. Push hips back and hinge torso forward so it’s nearly parallel to floor, soft bend in knees. Dumbbells should be near shins. Drive elbows back to row weights toward ribs. Pause, then slowly lower down for 3 to 5 seconds. 3 x 4-5 reps
B. Incline Dumbbell Chest Press with Legs Raised
Set an adjustable bench to a 30- to 45-degree angle and lie back with dumbbells in either hand. Engage core and lift legs off floor, flexing feet. Press weights overhead, palms in. Slowly lower to 90 degrees, staying tight and compact. Pause, then drive weights up directly over chest. 3 x 4-5 reps
Circuit 3
A. Dumbbell Bulgarian Squat
Stand lunge-length in front of a flat bench, holding heavy dumbbells in each hand by your sides, palms facing in. Rest the ball on top (shoe’s laces) of your right foot behind you on the bench. Slowly lower your body until your front thigh is parallel to the floor. Pause, then drive through your heel to stand. Switch sides after all reps are complete. 2 x 3-4 reps each side
B. Single-leg Romanian Deadlift
Stand with feet hip-width apart holding dumbbells or kettlebells. Drive right leg up, foot flexed, knee aligned with hip, making a 90-degree angle. Hinge at hips as you slowly lever your torso toward floor, lowering weights and driving right leg back for counterbalance. Hold, then squeeze glutes to reverse. 2 x 3-4 reps each side
Circuit 4
A. Pullup
Hang from a pullup bar using an overhand grip with legs extended and feet flexed. Engage lats and draw shoulders down your back, then pull yourself up until chin is higher than hands. Pause at the top, then slowly lower. Pause at bottom, then reset before your next rep. 2-3 x 4-5 reps
B. Kneeling Overhead Barbell Press
Hold a bar with moderate-to-heavy load at shoulder level with forearms perpendicular to floor. Kneel at end of bench with feet flexed to grip edge for support. Inhale, engage your core and glutes, then press the bar overhead, pushing your head forward so it passes your face, exhaling at the top.
Slowly lower until elbows are at 90 degrees, then hold to maintain tension. Begin your next rep from here. 2-3 x 4-5 reps
Circuit 5
A. Dumbbell Pushup
Place hands on dumbbells (this provides greater range of motion) at shoulder width and feet wider than shoulder width with just toes touching the ground. Keep head neutral and hips high to increase tension on core, chest and tris and reduce stress on spine. Slowly lower to the floor. Stop
once elbows hit 90 degrees, pause, then push up to start. 1-2 x 6-8 reps
B. Biceps Curl
Stand with feet hip-width apart with moderate-to-heavy dumbbells in each hand hanging by sides. Engage biceps to curl the weights up, keeping upper arms still. Pause at the top, then lower slowly. Don’t let arms drop all the way down to keep greater time under tension on biceps. 1-2 x 6-8 reps
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Fitness
The Best Jump Ropes for a Killer Cardio Workout
Published
2 years agoon
9 November 2022By
Terry Power
If you haven’t picked up a jump rope since elementary school, you’re missing out on a fantastic cardio workout. Not only will you burn a ton of calories in a short amount of time—200 to 300 calories in 15 minutes—but jump ropes can also improve your coordination and agility. Better yet, jumping rope doesn’t require much space, so it’s easy to do at home, and it’s often more mentally stimulating than jogging or swimming.
Choosing a Jump Rope
When deciding which jump rope is best for you, it’s important to determine what your goals are. While lightweight speed ropes are popular for cardio-focused training, weighted or drag ropes will be best for those focused on strength training.
No matter what your training goals are, we’ve got you covered with this roundup of 10 jump ropes from top brands including Crossrope, TRX, Rogue, and more.
The Best Jump Ropes of 2022
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